Substance Use Outreach Counselor

JOB SUMMARY:

Under the direction of the Program Officer at the Off Main Clinic, provides street-based substance use outreach, engagement, counseling, assessment, referral, and case management services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Connects clients with substance use disorder treatment, including medication-assisted treatment and other recovery services, as well as medical, behavioral health, housing, employment, benefits, and community supports. Works closely with Homeless Services to integrate substance use intervention into outreach activities and performs related documentation and coordination necessary to support program, contract, and regulatory requirements.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

Establishes and maintains relationships with homeless adults struggling with substance use disorder using a non-judgmental, trauma-informed, and client-centered approach.

Provides street-based outreach services to homeless adults, families, and other individuals experiencing housing instability, including informal counseling, substance use education, harm reduction-oriented engagement, and service navigation.

Conducts field-based needs assessments and screenings and provides education, referral, and linkage to substance use disorder treatment, medication-assisted treatment, mental health services, and other appropriate care, including appointment coordination and follow-up as appropriate.

Develops and implements up-to-date outreach plans with scheduled canvassing areas based on community need, program goals, contract requirements, and client engagement priorities.

Coordinates with CHS Homeless Services outreach teams, including the Salinas Valley and Monterey Peninsula Street Outreach Programs, to identify clients in need of substance use services, provide substance use disorder expertise and recovery interventions, and coordinate housing-related assessments as appropriate.

Provides prompt intervention and appropriate referrals in crisis situations.

Assists with transportation coordination and transports clients to appropriate clinics and services as needed and appropriate.

Maintains client confidentiality and complies with applicable privacy requirements, including HIPAA and 42 CFR Part
2.Maintains accurate and timely documentation of outreach contacts, assessments, referrals, case management activities, client progress, and required program data in Agency-approved systems in compliance with federal, state, and county requirements, accreditation standards, contract, grant, and program requirements.

Attends mandatory program and agency staff meetings and participates in program planning and development.

Participates in community events and works to decrease stigma pertaining to opioid, alcohol, and stimulant addiction through education and awareness.

Provides training to Homeless Services staff on substance use disorder identification, medication-assisted treatment, inpatient and outpatient care, and timely referral and linkage.

Works collaboratively with counselors, outreach staff, medical staff, case managers, administrative staff, and community partners.

Follows and supports compliance with CHS and applicable program-site policies and procedures.

Performs other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

High school diploma or GED plus two years of relevant outreach, substance use disorder treatment, human services, case management, or related experience; bachelor’s degree in counseling, psychology, social work, addiction studies, or a related field preferred.

Current registration or certification as an alcohol and other drug counselor through a DHCS-approved certifying organization, or ability to obtain registration before providing counseling services. Must maintain applicable registration or…